Values
At Sedbergh School, our existence revolves around four fundamental values, mirrored by the majestic Howgill Fells, and they play a central role in the journey of every Sedberghian. Our values are integrated into everything we do including into our curriculum.
Sedbergh values
We have four core values which encompass life at Sedbergh School. Each of these values is represented by the rolling Howgill Fells and play a pivotal role throughout the journey of every Sedberghian.
Humility
Humility is characterised by having a modest and unpretentious view of yourself – including an awareness of your limitations and imperfections and a willingness to learn from others. Humility is not about criticising yourself, self-deprecation or lack of self-confidence – common misconceptions; it’s about having a balanced view of yourself (your strengths and weaknesses) and treating others with respect and kindness. Humble individuals tend to be open-minded, receptive to feedback, and willing to put the needs and interests of others before their own. Cultivating humility requires self-awareness and introspection.
“To me, humility is about knowing that there is no such thing as perfection and that you should always be trying to improve. I always say – never take yourself too seriously.”
Paul Lucas, Head of Psychology and Deputy Head of Sixth Form
To me, humility is about knowing that there is no such thing as perfection and that you should always be trying to improve. I always say – never take yourself too seriously.
Paul Lucas, Head of Psychology and Deputy Head of Sixth Form
Ambition
We dare greatly in pursuit of excellence. Dreaming big, shattering limits, and being creative is in our DNA; our pupils are intrepid explorers charting their own journey through their education. Our pupils work tirelessly hard in their pursuit of achievement, knowing that by striving for excellence, they’ll unlock their true potential. This growth mindset, when paired with originality and higher-order thinking, means that Sedberghians are well prepared world of tomorrow.
Academic accomplishments are only part of the picture. At Sedbergh, intelligence isn’t just measured by how quickly you climb, or how high you reach. We revel in the journey taken, the lessons learned, and the tenacity displayed in the face of challenge.
“I think if you don’t have ambition you’re not going to get anywhere. You don’t have to be the smartest one in the room but if you’re not driven to be the best person you can be then you are stuck going nowhere. Some people don’t go to uni but they’re driven and they end up being massive CEOs. Obviously it comes with all of the other things because if you’re not kind no-one is going to like you!”
Elle, Year 13
Resilience
Life’s unpredictable currents may sometimes steer us into rough waters, but at Sedbergh, we show how to navigate a way through, and emerge stronger, wiser from every setback. We instil the belief that mental resilience isn’t just about getting back on track; it’s about adaptation and agility, and finding new depths of talent.
With a ‘can-do’ attitude, Sedbergians stand tall together in the face of adversity, transforming obstacles into opportunities and challenges into triumphs. It’s this courage that propels them beyond the limits of what they once thought impossible, and prepares them for a vibrant life of adventure after Sedbergh.
“The value I most identify with is resilience; everyone has challenging times, but you know, you have to keep going. I feel like there are times when I am aiming too high, but I know that if I keep going, eventually I’m going to get there. It doesn’t happen in one split second, and it is important to remember this.”
TJ, Year 13
Kindness
We don’t just talk about kindness, we live and breathe it – whether on the playing field, or in the classroom. We are one school, one pack, one family. We protect, we are fair, and above all, we deeply care about each other. Together, we celebrate the triumphs that matter most, not by numbers or accolades, but in memories made and friendships forged.
True advancement lies not just in personal gains but in the lifting up of each other, as in the long run, it’s this show of compassion that makes a difference. Young adults leave Sedbergh with a strong intellect, and a firm appreciation of the value of service and the importance and satisfaction of giving back.
“The school value that most resonates with me is kindness. A lack of kindness turns into a lack of respect for people. I really try to be kind to people because it’s the right thing to do. And in the least cliché way, if possible, life’s tough and kindness is just something that’s going to help you out now and again.”
Joe, Year 13